Representative from Lyon county, was born in the village of Grothussen, East Friesland, Germany, November 30, 1854, where he received two years of his education in the schools of his nativity. Came to the United States in 1862 with his parents, and located at Freeport, Illinois, where he attended the local school near Freeport for four years. In the spring of 1866 moved with his parents to Grundy county, Iowa, where he completed his school attendance. In 1872 embarked in an agricultural career for himself. Was married to Miss Trinky Schlutter in 1876, and has eight children, five boys and three girls. In 1887 purchased a farm about three miles west of Rock Rapids, upon which he moved with his family in 1890, and upon which, with adjacent land, he subsequently acquired, he now resides. Has devoted most of his time to farming and the raising, feeding and shipping of cattle and sheep. Is a stockholder in one of the local banks and is also interested in the Farmers' Elevator Company at Rock Rapids, and the Lyon County Fair Association. Has occupied a place on his local school board for many years. Elected Representative in 1908. A Republican in politics.